As reported by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, depression is the top cause of disability in those under the age of 44. Every year, about 16.1 million adults in the United States deal with depression. Treatment for depression typically consists of lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and medication. When it comes to treating depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is yet another alternative, and it’s one that we offer at Revive Therapeutic Services.
What is TMS therapy?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that targets particular brain areas with the help of a pulsed magnetic field. Treatment with TMS is usually a series, each session lasting around 20 minutes. That’s roughly five sessions per week for four to six weeks. A magnetic coil is held against your head during the session, and you may feel a gentle tapping sensation. The magnetic energy is focused on the limbic system, which is known to control one’s emotional state.
How TMS brings hope to people suffering from Depression?
TMS treatments do not necessitate anesthesia, and they can be effective even if previous treatments have failed to alleviate your symptoms. TMS treatments are effective, can lessen the need for medication, and do not induce the same adverse effects commonly associated with drugs. First, let’s examine the advantages of TMS therapy.
It’s a successful treatment option
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, TMS is effective for about half of patients after many weeks of consistent treatments. The studies show that the medication is well tolerated and helpful for a sizable population. Harvard University research shows that half and two-thirds of depressed people who have not responded to medicine respond well to TMS therapy. Around a third of these people have a “full remission,” in which their depressive symptoms entirely vanish.
The ability to drive is not affected by TMS.
With TMS treatment, you can still drive without any restrictions. A friend or family member must accompany you home after receiving an infusion of certain medications, such as ketamine. Drowsiness and weariness are other side effects of some drugs, making it risky to get behind the wheel while taking them.
Reduces chances of side effects
Antidepressants are a broad category of drugs that includes SSRIs and SNRIs (SNRIs). While not everyone has the same experience with antidepressants, medication may be the best option for some. However, some people find that the adverse effects of their medications are too much to bear. If you are unhappy with the side effects of other treatments and medicines, TMS therapy might be better for you. While some people report no symptoms at all, others may suffer tingling or even lightheadedness. These reactions are temporary and typically disappear soon after TMS treatment ends.
Is TMS right for you?
Although TMS is a safe and effective treatment option for some people with depression, it is not a panacea. Those with a pacemaker, metal plates in their skull, spinal or bladder stimulators, a record of epilepsy, or a neurochip are not good candidates for TMS therapy. To determine the best course of treatment, our experts will thoroughly examine your current symptoms and medical history.